Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Alba’ (White Indian Hawthorn)
Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Alba’ is a hardy, evergreen shrub valued for its glossy foliage and masses of white flowers. It is widely used in landscaping for its durability, neat growth habit, and ability to perform well in coastal and exposed environments.
The plant features thick, leathery, dark green leaves that form a dense canopy. In spring, it produces abundant clusters of pure white flowers, often followed by small blue-black berries that add additional seasonal interest.
Key Features
‘Alba’ is valued for its clean white flowering display and strong, structured growth. It provides reliable seasonal colour while maintaining a tidy appearance throughout the year.
It is well suited to low-maintenance landscapes and is particularly tolerant of coastal conditions, including wind and salt exposure.
Its dense foliage makes it effective for screening, borders, and mass planting.
Growth Habit and Size
This variety grows as a rounded, bushy shrub with a naturally compact form.
It typically reaches 1.5 to 2.5 metres in height, with a similar spread. Growth rate is moderate, allowing it to maintain shape without excessive pruning.
Care Requirements
Light
Performs best in full sun but can tolerate light shade. Full sun encourages stronger flowering and denser growth.
Watering
Requires regular watering during establishment. Once established, it is moderately drought tolerant.
Water approximately once per week or as needed depending on conditions.
Soil
Prefers well-draining soil and is adaptable to a range of soil types.
Temperature and Climate
Suitable for temperate, coastal, and subtropical climates. It tolerates heat, wind, and light frost once established.
Maintenance
Low maintenance. Light pruning can be carried out after flowering to maintain shape or encourage denser growth.
Fertilising during the growing season can support flowering and overall health.
Mulching helps retain soil moisture and improve soil structure.
Common Issues
Generally hardy with minimal issues.
Leaf spotting may occur in humid conditions but is usually minor.
Poor drainage can lead to root problems.
Reduced flowering may occur in low light conditions.
Applications
Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Alba’ is suitable for:
Hedging and screening
Mass planting
Coastal gardens
Formal and informal landscapes
Boundary planting
Commercial landscaping
Its white flowers and dense foliage make it a versatile landscape shrub.
Specification and Care Chart
| Attribute |
Details |
| Botanical Name |
Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Alba’ |
| Common Name |
White Indian Hawthorn |
| Plant Type |
Evergreen shrub |
| Mature Height |
1.5 m to 2.5 m |
| Growth Habit |
Rounded, bushy |
| Growth Rate |
Moderate |
| Light Conditions |
Full sun to light shade |
| Direct Sunlight |
Preferred |
| Watering Frequency |
Low to moderate once established |
| Soil Type |
Well-draining, adaptable |
| Drainage Requirement |
Essential |
| Temperature Range |
Temperate to subtropical |
| Frost Tolerance |
Light frost |
| Drought Tolerance |
Moderate |
| Humidity |
Tolerant |
| Fertiliser |
General-purpose |
| Maintenance Level |
Low |
| Toxicity |
Not commonly regarded as toxic |
FAQ – Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Alba’
Does it flower heavily?
Yes, it produces abundant white flowers in spring.
Is it suitable for coastal gardens?
Yes, it tolerates wind and salt exposure well.
How often should it be pruned?
Light pruning after flowering is sufficient.
Does it need full sun?
Full sun promotes best flowering, though light shade is tolerated.
How big does it grow?
Typically reaches 1.5 to 2.5 metres in height and spread.
Is it drought tolerant?
Yes, moderately drought tolerant once established.
